In the wake of intelligence intercepts about terrorist groups that may disrupt Republic Day celebrations, the Delhi Police banned flying drones, balloons, and gliders in the national capital. The restrictions will be in effect until February 15th.
According to an order issued by the Delhi Police, it has been reported that certain criminal or anti-social elements or terrorists inimical to India may pose a threat to the safety of the general public, dignitaries and vital installations by the use of sub-conventional aerial platforms like paragliders, paramotors, hang gliders, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), micro-light aircraft, remotely piloted aircraft, hot air balloons, small powered aircraft, quadcopters or even by para-jumping from aircraft.
Therefore, sub-conventional aerial platforms like paragliders, paramotors, hang gliders, UAVs, UAS, microlight aircraft, remotely piloted aircraft, hot air balloons, small-size powered aircraft, quadcopters or parajumping from aircraft will remain prohibited over the jurisdiction of the National Capital Territory of Delhi on the occasion of the Republic Day function.
Doing so shall be punishable under Section 188 (disobedience to an order lawfully promulgated by a public servant) of the Indian Penal Code, the Delhi Police said.
This order will take effect on January 18 and will remain in effect for 29 days, i.e. until February 2, both days inclusive, unless withdrawn earlier, according to the order.